1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

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1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

July 27, 2020, 03:09:45 am

So I'm in a 1987 grand villa 30k miles ORED (Caterpillar engine) that I'm about to buy tomorrow and drive home for $19,500.
iCloud

Pics show exterior, interior, LOVE that dash. It's in good condition for its 30+ years of age. Undercarriage looks rust free, my truck has more rust and it's not from the NE.

Roof Question:
Seems solid. There is one panel near the rear AC that feels.. slightly squishy. Sure the roof has been sealed recently, but hard to tell its state. Pics attached though. It's hard to tell water damage in these rigs what with these coverings on our ceilings.

Here's what doesn't work:
- Engine sometimes has a low idle that's very rumbly (shakes the rig), then stabilizes and gets super smooth. We're taking it to Peterbilt tomorrow morning for diagnosis. They had already attempted a round.
This one is scary. PO took it to Peterbilt to diagnose an ugly start -- required pumping the thing in the back of the engine to start.

- Does the 6.5k Propane Onan shake the entire RV? Guess it's normal. My old genny was smaller. It also seems to jump up and down on loads. They ain't cheap. Wish it was a diesel genny first of all, especially if I need it on for driving AC!

- Speedo/odo/tach -- been told easy fix if part found by this forum
- Dash lights -- probably easy? Worst case scenario attach my own switch to the bulbs?
- AC doesn't work from vehicle side, so it's propane genny or no AC. Was the AC off the engine even effective? Am I missing much?
Forum member just let me call him to pick his brain that it's all good. It wouldn't provide enough AC anyways.
- Propane indicator is wrong. But there's a needle on the tank, and it's a huge tank, so I'm not that worried about it.
- Heater - there are new heaters installed. The flow seemed meh. I can only hope it heats the whole rig when it's cold, but it's hard to tell since it's hot!
- Random lights don't seem to turn on.. probably coroded leads or something.

How challenging do these tech issues seem?

I'm still leaning towards buying it at the 19,500. Thanks! Just traveled across the country and am now in a RV... I got to sleep!

MYSTERY
- I have an inverter, and solar setup. It looks old. I doubt it's MPPT or anything.
I'm not sure if hte inverter is wired to anything. I see two LARGE leads, to batteries presumably. And then I see 2 outlets, and then another hidden wire going somehwere. I wonder if it's connected to the coach somehow? Anyone seen one of these? It's in the last pic.

This thing has built in vacuum??? It sucks strong. I want to buy the vacuum portion!

Re: Am in the 1987 Grand Villa OREG -- Dash lights, ac doesn't work, 6.5kw only 1 AC

Reply #1 – July 27, 2020, 05:48:39 am

Welcome! You found the right place for all things Foretravel and I am sure the experts will answer you soon. Without the Forum there would be no Foretravel for us.

The Dash AC is an issue with lot's of these coaches. Mine works as new due to spending the money to fix it but it still struggles to cool us off on a hot day. We run the generator and the front AC. We have 2 big dogs that suffer in the heat so we do it.

The generator on my coach can run everything, including both AC's if needed.

Good luck with your hunt! Hope this one works out for you.

Jeff

Re: Am in the 1987 Grand Villa OREG -- Dash lights, ac doesn't work, 6.5kw only 1 AC

Reply #2 – July 27, 2020, 08:46:12 am

Your propane gage might be adjustable--like mine. On the tank should be a gage. Loosen the screw(s) holding the face of the gage in place and see if the gage can be rotated. If it can, get the tank filled to the recommended capacity. On a 50 gallon tank this is about 80% or 42 gallons. Then adjust the dial on the tank to 3/4 capacity. This also would adjust the amount on the monitor on the dash.

Re: Am in the 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Dash lights, ac doesn't work, 6.5kw only 1 AC

Reply #3 – July 27, 2020, 09:46:55 am

Quote from: nitehawk – July 27, 2020, 08:46:12 am

Your propane gage might be adjustable--like mine. On the tank should be a gage. Loosen the screw(s) holding the face of the gage in place and see if the gage can be rotated. If it can, get the tank filled to the recommended capacity. On a 50 gallon tank this is about 80% or 42 gallons. Then adjust the dial on the tank to 3/4 capacity. This also would adjust the amount on the monitor on the dash.

Awesome. I will check that out! Thank you.

Re: Am in the 1987 Grand Villa OREG -- Dash lights, ac doesn't work, 6.5kw only 1 AC

Reply #4 – July 27, 2020, 09:53:19 am

Quote from: portlandft – July 27, 2020, 03:09:45 am

what doesn't work:
- Engine sometimes has a low idle that's very rumbly (shakes the rig), then stabilizes and gets super smooth.
- Speedo/odo/tach -- been told easy fix if part found by this forum
- Dash lights -- probably easy? Worst case scenario attach my own switch to the bulbs?
- AC doesn't work from vehicle side, so it's propane genny or no AC. Was the AC off the engine even effective? Am I missing much?
- Propane indicator is wrong. But there's a needle on the tank, and it's a huge tank, so I'm not that worried about it.
- The 6.5kw genny can't handle the two AC on at once. They should be able to right? Is this a sign of a big problem?
- Heater - there are new heaters installed. The flow seemed meh. I can only hope it heats the whole rig when it's cold...
- Random lights don't seem to turn on.. probably coroded leads or something.

1. Engine low idle: Could be simple (mechanical adjustment or dirty fuel/air filters?) or more serious. See what Peterbilt says.

2. Speedo/Tach: Yes, can be replaced with modern components. Easy? Perhaps...

3. Dash lights: Might be a blown fuse? 12V automotive fuses are (probably) located under the lift-up dashboard cover.

4. Engine A/C: Some use it, some don't. Ours doesn't work and we don't care. We run the generator and one or both roof airs as required.

5. Propane indicator broke: As you said, BIG tank - so not a problem. Top it off once a year and forget about it.

6. Generator: AFAIK, Foretravel sized the OEM generator to be able to run both roof airs simultaneously. So that definitely needs to addressed. We can provide contact info for expert knowledge on generator repair when we know the exact brand/model.

7. Heaters: We have two OEM propane heaters and they heat our coach just fine. They are a bit noisy when running (fan noise).

8. Interior lighting: If you have fluorescent tubes in your OEM lights, they will regularly burn out and need replacement. If you buy the coach, we will recommend converting to LEDs. Easy do-it-yerself project. Many threads here on that subject.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #5 – July 27, 2020, 09:59:51 am

Dash lights are run by the headlight switch. Or could be a fuse. As I recall it's a Chev switch, cheap. Right, genny should run both airs.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #6 – July 27, 2020, 10:04:38 am

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – July 27, 2020, 09:53:19 am

6. Generator: AFAIK, Foretravel sized the OEM generator to be able to run both roof airs simultaneously. So that definitely needs to addressed. We can provide contact info for expert knowledge on generator repair when we know the exact brand/model.

I've been able to run both the ACs now that I slowly enabled the one at a time from a lower setting. Going to try the microwave on top now.. Maybe it overloaded the genny too fast. But damn is it loud!

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #7 – July 27, 2020, 10:12:37 am

Generators are (usually) kinda loud - that's why many owners don't like running them. Might need a new muffler?

Here's a operating tip on the generator. Makes it easier on the equipment.

Have all loads (air conditioners, microwave, etc) turned OFF when you crank up the genny. Let the generator RPM stabilize for a few moments. THEN turn on the loads.

Shutting down - reverse the procedure. First turn OFF all the loads, then shut down the generator.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #8 – July 27, 2020, 10:28:20 am

If it is the old Onan Emerald III, yes they are loud.
I have found that it is not the exhaust making all the noise, but the air intake fan.
I have read of all kinds of attempts to reduce the noise and even tried a few.
Keep in mind that every change in direction you make to a noise source will reduce the decibel level about 50%
If parked on a hard surface, a piece of carpet is supposed to reduce the exhaust noise.
But the intake cooling fan noise is the worst. Figure out a way to cut that and you will have everyone wanting to duplicate your solution.
Personally, although I haven't tried it, building a mobile labyrinth that could be set up on the ground and against the louvered generator door would probably be the easiest and most practical solution short of replacing the air cooled unit with the newer water cooled diesel unit.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #9 – July 27, 2020, 11:41:17 am

Quote from: portlandft – July 27, 2020, 03:09:45 am

Pics show exterior, interior, LOVE that dash. It's in good condition for its 30+ years of age.

FWIW, I'll make some general armchair comments after viewing your photos.

1. The sides/rear of the coach look very nice. The decals are in better shape than our '93 model (which has never been garaged).

2. The dirty roof will probably clean up with Bar Keepers Friend cleaner and polish (either powder or paste) + sponge/water/elbow grease.

3. I'd guess those solar panels are probably trash, but replacement panels are getting cheaper every day, so no big problem.

4. The dash cover and front seats were probably recovered by a prior owner. Nice job! I like the color of the material.

5. No rear view camera monitor, but you can add one pretty easily. The heavy old B&W overhead TV is gone - no great loss - RIP.

6. Floor has been updated - nice pattern/color. Ceiling material looks good (not hanging down). Interior lights can be easily converted to LED.

7. POWER PATIO AWNING! I'm guessing that is not original? Does it work?

8. Photocomm Inc. Inverter. Not familiar with that brand. Model number? Is there any paperwork or owner's manual for it?

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #10 – July 27, 2020, 11:54:52 am

Back up camera works through the front tv on channel 3.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #11 – July 27, 2020, 11:56:00 am

Quote from: Caflashbob – July 27, 2020, 11:54:52 am

Back up camera works through the front tv on channel 3.

Front TV is MIA.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #12 – July 27, 2020, 12:13:30 pm

The folding shower door appears to be missing. I understand it's not readily available

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #13 – July 27, 2020, 01:50:00 pm

So is that a side radiator 300HP?

If you've got the money I'd say go for it. You will kick your self a few times and wonder what you've done. Then when you're going down the road in that drivers perch with a grin ear to ear and people ask what kind of motorhome that is you will be so glad you made the effort. Make sure all 25 fan belts are good. At least it seemed like that many on our old Ored. That 300 HP in an ORED is a rocket.

Once we were driving through the Arkansas mountains in our 3208 Ored and my nephew was behind us pulling their 5th wheel. We couldn't see them and pulled over worried about them. After a LONG time they showed up. He said that when he was trying to keep up with us on the curves the wheels were lifting off the ground on their 5th wheel.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #14 – July 27, 2020, 02:09:34 pm

Quote from: Caflashbob – July 27, 2020, 12:13:30 pm

The folding shower door appears to be missing. I understand it's not readily available

Where do you see a picture of that?

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #15 – July 27, 2020, 02:29:00 pm

Quote from: Johnstons – July 27, 2020, 01:50:00 pm

So is that a side radiator 300HP?

If you've got the money I'd say go for it. You will kick your self a few times and wonder what you've done. Then when you're going down the road in that drivers perch with a grin ear to ear and people ask what kind of motorhome that is you will be so glad you made the effort. Make sure all 25 fan belts are good. At least it seemed like that many on our old Ored. That 300 HP in an ORED is a rocket.

Once we were driving through the Arkansas mountains in our 3208 Ored and my nephew was behind us pulling their 5th wheel. We couldn't see them and pulled over worried about them. After a LONG time they showed up. He said that when he was trying to keep up with us on the curves the wheels were lifting off the ground on their 5th wheel.

This engine seems amazing. Super quiet, too. The PO had stories about hauling ass in this thing...

The only problem is that there's some kind of vacuum leak and I have to pump the thing in the back to pressurize and then the engine starts in a split second. I'm staying here/not driving/buying the RV until this issue is fixed. Peterbilt said they need to use clear hose look for bubbles and find the leak?

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #16 – July 27, 2020, 02:32:42 pm

Check for leaks at the fuel filters first. If not there, then connections at tank. If not there, likely the fuel line itself-- look for cracks where the fuel line goes over fittings.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #17 – July 27, 2020, 02:34:05 pm

Quote from: Caflashbob – July 27, 2020, 12:13:30 pm

The folding shower door appears to be missing. I understand it's not readily available

He said he got rid of it because it was ugly.

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – July 27, 2020, 11:41:17 am

2. The dirty roof will probably clean up with Bar Keepers Friend cleaner and polish (either powder or paste) + sponge/water/elbow grease.
4. The dash cover and front seats were probably recovered by a prior owner. Nice job! I like the color of the material.
7. POWER PATIO AWNING! I'm guessing that is not original? Does it work?
8. Photocomm Inc. Inverter. Not familiar with that brand. Model number? Is there any paperwork or owner's manual for it?

That's so good to hear!!
2: The roof: the RV inspector said he could see some fiberglass starting to appear, so recommends cleaning up the roof with a round of... something. $500-1000? PO agreed to cover it in the cost of the purchase.
4: PO is adamant it's original, but who knows. How do I find out, for kicks??
7: Yes! He had the awning installed literally 3 days ago. He's selling it without ever having used his brand new refrigerator or awning. I have a video of the awning here: awning video
8: No idea...

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #18 – July 27, 2020, 03:01:22 pm

The inverter looks to be just a regular add on that you turn on, plug in an extension cord and then to the appliance. I put one in mine but different brand. And it is GFI'd.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #19 – July 27, 2020, 03:49:15 pm

If you have the OE Racor fuel filter. Look there first. About 6 places for seals to fail and make for poor running. I replaced mine with a modern Duramax filter on a universal 3/4-16 brtacket. Wix said that any of the 3/4 16 filters will flow enough fuel. Well over 65GPH.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #20 – July 27, 2020, 04:14:39 pm

Mike mentions the OEM Racor primary fuel filter. If you do have this filter, it gets kinda complicated. The original unit used by Foretravel was later discontinued and replaced by a "retrofit kit". That kit was later replaced by many owners with other filter units. See the thread linked below for a discussion of these filters, and possible help in identifying what is on the coach you are looking at.

Fuel filter assembly identity

Racor RK12963 Retrofit Kit

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #21 – July 27, 2020, 06:16:24 pm

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – July 27, 2020, 04:14:39 pm

Mike mentions the OEM Racor primary fuel filter. If you do have this filter, it gets kinda complicated. The original unit used by Foretravel was later discontinued and replaced by a "retrofit kit". That kit was later replaced by many owners with other filter units. See the thread linked below for a discussion of these filters, and possible help in identifying what is on the coach you are looking at.

Fuel filter assembly identity

Racor RK12963 Retrofit Kit

I bet this is it. I found a receipt from recently where peterbilt billed $600 to diagnose "loss of prime while driving, doesn't want to keep running unless under throttle".

The report says:

"Found oring in water separator housing worn and dirty causing large air leak in fuel system, cleaned water separator housing and replaced oring. Engine still loses prime, can hear air leak near injection pump while pumping priming pump. Got in bed hatch and got engine started and idling, noticed engine valley full of diesel, has fuel leak on injection pump, may need to remove injection pump for further diag.
941 - checked for fuel leaks at injection pump and found none, cleaned valley out, took and pressure washed valley and let run to see if it filled with fuel again, it did not it was just residual fuel from bleeding the system, started with no hickup and runs fine."

Should I just ask them to replace the fuel filter with something else? Hmmmm.

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #22 – July 27, 2020, 06:27:49 pm

No need to remove the injection pump. You most likely have a seal on the input shaft that has failed. Fuel leaks out from around shaft and runs down under the injection pump then drips off in the valley pan. Common problem on a 3208 with those symptoms. This can be removed and replace while the pump is on the engine. That seal is about $2 it is just location that is bad.

Mike

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #23 – July 27, 2020, 06:30:16 pm

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – July 27, 2020, 04:14:39 pm

Mike mentions the OEM Racor primary fuel filter. If you do have this filter, it gets kinda complicated. The original unit used by Foretravel was later discontinued and replaced by a "retrofit kit". That kit was later replaced by many owners with other filter units. See the thread linked below for a discussion of these filters, and possible help in identifying what is on the coach you are looking at.

Fuel filter assembly identity

Racor RK12963 Retrofit Kit

Found out I have a `Model 500FG` after scraping some paint off the label. Wheee

Re: 1987 Grand Villa ORED - Minor Tech Issues, Photos, Weird Inverter? Solar PICS!

Reply #24 – July 27, 2020, 06:34:44 pm

The Racor 500FG is a very good and common fuel filter (filter elements need to be sized/micron rating) for either primary (course) or secondary (fine).

Could there be a bad seal/O ring-- sure.

But, have used that filter on a number of boats with no issues.

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